May 3, 2013
I remember that when I lived in the North, this was a very
strange time of year to come to southern Canada . In Yellowknife or Iqaluit, the glorious thing
this time of year is the sunshine stretching further and further into the evening
hours. With all that sunlight, the snow is receding rapidly and the
winter is clearly over. That feels like spring until you travel south and find
the tulips in full bloom and joggers out in their shorts.
Now, I’m living in a place where the first week in May the
lawns are green velvet, tiny leaves are unfurling on every twig, the birds are
singing crazily, and the forsythia are in full bloom. After lots of warm
spring rain in recent weeks, the earth has sprung back to life.
This weekend is predicted to be warm and sunny
throughout. I guess I shouldn’t begrudge that fact that, along with those
wonderfully dedicated members of the Executive of the General Council and
supporting staff and volunteers, I’ll be inside the whole time! In fact,
whether we get out and enjoy the sunshine or not, the gift of springtime
bursting forth will be uplifting to all who toil over difficult budget
decisions this weekend.
In preparation for work heavy with responsibility and
emotion, I was blessed last week to take part in the Week of Guided Prayer at Islington United Church
Meanwhile, I turn to this week’s work with scriptural images
and reflections to offer guidance – and hope.
May peace be with you.
Nora
